Pulmonary rehabilitation is a safe and effective supervised programme of education and exercise classes to help those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other chronic lung conditions reduce breathlessness and build body strength. Exercise helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and promotes motivation and positivity – which support further physical improvement. In this way a cycle of continual progress is established, which greatly improves the patient’s quality of life.
Benefit of pulmonary rehabilitation at Bupa Cromwell Hospital
Our cardiothoracic physiotherapists are fully qualified; state registered and pursue continuing professional development initiatives, which help keep them at the leading edge of their profession. They understand the nature of the issues you face, both physically and emotionally.
“We know that the fear of breathlessness can prevent people from doing activities they enjoy. We help them learn how to reduce this anxiety” Physiotherapist
All physiotherapy sessions are carried out in our purpose-built therapies gym.
What does pulmonary rehabilitation involve?
Your therapist will make a full assessment of your breathing, at rest, and during exercise.
They will discuss with you, your diet, any wider health issues, and how much support you need in your everyday life, Ref Based on assessment of this, they will tailor a programme specific to your needs. This can include diet and managed exercise programmes.
Your bespoke programme will normally involve one or two sessions a week for 6-12 weeks. You can choose to take part in these, either as a member of a group or as an individual in a one to one session with your therapist. Sessions take place in our therapy gym, where we have a range of equipment including a treadmill; exercise bikes, and a step machine. We tailor the exercises to your individual ability and preferences, to make your time with us as enjoyable as possible.
Some of the exercises we teach you are designed to be carried out at home as part of your everyday life. Weekly monitoring of your progress helps us to fine tune your programme, and help you make the best progress possible.
What happens if I need further treatment?
The rate of improvement in managing breathlessness varies and can depend on a number of factors including whether there are co-existing medical conditions. If you need treatment other than physiotherapy, we can refer you quickly for further examination or treatment to specialist multi-disciplinary teams within the hospital.
Making an appointment
If you are paying for your own treatment you can make an appointment with us straight away - you do not need to be referred by your GP.
If you have private medical insurance, your insurer may cover some aspects of therapy so it is best to check with them before making your appointment. If you are covered for pulmonary rehabilitation through your insurers, then you will need to be referred to us by your GP, or a Bupa Cromwell Hospital clinician as part of your care plan.
If you are being referred by a Bupa Cromwell Hospital clinician as part of your patient care plan, please call us on the number below to make an appointment.
